Risk factors of thrombosis in cancer : the role of microparticles

Tesselaar, M.E.T. (2008)

Doctoral Thesis

This thesis elaborates the occurrence of venous thrombosis in cancer patients. Cancer is known to be associated with venous thrombosis with a spectrum of clinical manifestations varying from deep vein thrombosis of the leg and pulmonary embolism, recurrent thrombophlebitits saltans et migrans (also called Trousseau__s syndrome) to disseminated intravascular coagulation and arterial embolism. The causes of venous thrombosis can be divided in environmental risk factors such as bed rest, surgery, plaster cast, trauma, long-distance travel, oral contraceptives or pregnancy and puerperium and genetic risk factors such as factor V Leiden and prothrombin 20210A mutation. Various factors may contribute to the development of venous thrombosis in cancer patients, and circulating mucins as well as circulating microparticles which express active TF on their surface may provide a missing link between cancer and thrombosis in (adeno) carcinoma patients. Treatment options include vitamin K antagonists and low-molecular-weight heparins, and the long-term use of these heparins in prevention of venous thrombosis may improve the outcome in comparison with oral anticoagulants. Further research is needed to better understand the morbidity and mortality associated with thrombosis in cancer patients and to optimize strategies of prevention and treatment

• Cancer
• Microparticles
• Risk factors
• Tissue factor
• Venous thrombosis

• All authors: Tesselaar, M.E.T.
• Supervisor: Rosendaal, F.R.; Nortier, J.W.R.
• Co-supervisor: Osanto, S.
• Qualification: Doctor (dr.)
• Awarding Institution: Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden University
• Date: 2008-03-06
• ISBN (print): 9789090228037
• Sponsorship: Stichting Klinische Oncology Leiden